Gather round, Rivals, and get ready to unleash the thunderous might of Thor, sling around the battlefield as Spider-Man, shoot down your foes with the Punisher and so much more. With 33 heroes and villains to choose from, picking your favorite might prove to be a challenge but fret not as all heroes in Marvel Rivals will be free when it launches on December 6! Explore the many superpowers of this iconic cast and elevate your fighting tactics with their unique team-up abilities. There is precious little time left for you to wishlist Marvel Rivals and get notified when the game launches as it brings its bold cast of heroes and villains to PS5!Feeling the power of your every battle with the DualSense Wireless ControllerMarvel Rivals brings an immersive superhero combat experience to players, by utilizing the adaptive triggers and haptic feedback technology of the PS5 DualSense wireless controller to deliver immersive sensations. Players will feel the changes in trigger tension and dynamic vibration when different heroes release skills, like the satisfying gunfire of the Punishers machine gun, the tension of Hawkeyes bowstring, and the powerful punches of Hulk.Maximized visuals and performance with PS5, and elevated more with PS5 ProAs a high-intensity multiplayer competitive game, smoothest performance has always been a top priority during development. Marvel Rivals maintains a stable 60 FPS at 1440p resolutions by utilizing Unreal Engine 5s Lumen Global Illumination and Chaos Destruction technology. The combination of visuals and performance in Marvel Rivals is sure to deliver dynamic visual effects while you engage in epic superhero battles. For players with higher demands for a competitive experience, Marvel Rivals provides High Frame Rate Mode running at up to 120 FPS. It delivers an ultra-smooth gameplay experience with reduced input latency, enhancing responsiveness and control precision.Thanks to the powerful GPU capabilities and the new PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) technology, Marvel Rivals introduces a new Pro Mode on the PS5 Pro. This mode targets a stable 60 FPS and deliver higher 4K resolutions. In addition to Lumen Global Illumination, it also features support Lumen Reflections, offering more immersive and dynamic lighting effects for an enhanced visual experience. PS5 Pro also offers higher resolutions in 120 FPS High Frame Rate Mode.PlayStation Plus players, weve got something special for youTheres even more in store for PlayStation Plus users. Ever dreamed of rocking the symbiotes style on a massive mech? Now you can with a full pack of Venom inspired cosmetics for Peni Parker in her VEN#M suit straight from the comics! Don a menacing mech suit complete with your name card that is sure to make your enemies tremble, shake up your spray can to mark your victories and embody the essence of Venom throughout your gameplay and dont forget to strike a pose with when inevitably getting the MVP with your dedicated animation! As if it couldnt possibly get any better, youll also get Season Pass tokens when you claim the pack!Not a PlayStation Plus member? No worries! All players will have the opportunity to purchase these items in-game as well.An exclusive skin, only on PS5 to boot!Peni is not the only Parker to receive an exclusive cosmetic upgrade. PS5 players can enjoy the exclusive Scarlet Spider skin for Spider-Man which is marked by its intricate noir threading and scarlet mask. This refreshed look for everyones favorite webslinger is sure to delight heroes and villains alike across the Multiverse. After all, who says you cant fight crime while looking your best?So dont delay, wishlist Marvel Rivals and get in on the action on the first day!

Its been a big year for new releases, and today were celebrating the best of PlayStation gaming by asking you to cast your vote for your favorites of the year: the PS Blog Game of the Year Awards 2024 polls are now open!Were highlighting the exemplary work from studio powerhouses the world over across 19 categories. All help shine a light on the creatives whose hard work and exceptional craft has made this years gaming experiences so vibrant: amazing gameplay, memorable characters, exceptional art direction, unforgettable soundtracks, and much more.The selections in each category are extensive, and youve further choice via the write-in option in each to add a title that, for you, best represents that category this year. As ever, the only votes counted in these awards are those cast by you, the players. Those games earning the majority votes by polls close will be recognised with Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum PS Blog trophies when we reveal the results in a few weeks.As ever, there are some guidelines regards the categories and their nominees:Best PS5 Game category is defined as games that have been newly released this calendar year, rather than previously released titles with new updates.As with the majority of the other categories, Best Multiplayer Experience focuses on titles released in 2024. Best Ongoing Game focuses on titles that have seen new, large-scale content or game-changing updates launch over this past year.Best Rerelease refers to games that have been upgraded, ported, or remastered but are otherwise similar to their original game. This category does not include full-scale remakes of older titles, which are eligible in other categories.Cut off for inclusion in this years nominees list was November 30. Titles releasing after this date arent eligible for inclusion, but will be eligible for nomination and voting in next years Awards.If a title won a Platinum Trophy in the Most Anticipated category any previous year, it wont be eligible for inclusion this year to allow other titles a chance to shine. As such, Grand Theft Auto VI in The Most Anticipated Game of 2025 and Beyond category as it earned a Platinum in that category in the 2023s Awards.So, cast your vote in the polls below to support your favorite games and developers. Dont delay though: voting closes next Friday, December 13 at 23.59pm PT. So scroll below and get clicking.Good luck to all the nominees!Best New CharacterBest StoryBest Graphical ShowcaseBest Art DirectionBest Audio DesignBest SoundtrackBest Accessibility FeaturesBest Use of DualSenseBest Rerelease (Remaster)Best Multiplayer ExperienceBest Ongoing GameBest ExpansionBest Sports GameBest Independent GameBest PS VR2 GameBest PS4 GameBest PS5 GameStudio of the YearMost Anticipated Game of 2025 and Beyond

Cyber Monday is coming to a close, which means its your last chance to get some of the biggest Dungeons & Dragons deals weve seen this year.That includes great deals for first-time adventurers, like 40% off the D&D Essentials Kit, which comes with a rulebook, character sheets, dice, and everything else you need to start your first campaign. Or if youre shopping for a younger player, The Young Adventurers Collection contains four books to help them get started, and is only $15 (was $35).For more experienced players, you might be interested in the various discounted adventure books or The Making of Original Dungeons & Dragons: 1970-1977, a coffee table book that makes the perfect D&D gift and is currently 50% off. And while not the biggest discount of Cyber Monday, Wizards of the Coast is offering 10% off physical copies of the 2024 Players Handbook and the 2024 Dungeon Masters Guide, both of which launched only a few months ago. Weve rounded up even more D&D deals below. But if you see something you like, dont wait too long to add it to your cart since the hours left in Cyber Monday are ticking by.Looking for more? Check out all of Polygons favorite Cyber Monday deals, including great discounts on board games, video games and gaming accessories, Magic: The Gathering, and Legos. And subscribe to our newsletter below to get great deals delivered to your inbox every week.

And just like that, Cyber Monday is almost over, and many of the popular deals we saw during Black Friday and the days that followed have ended, or are no longer selling at prices that are quite as tempting. However, theres still time to shop if youre reading this, so get to shopping for the gamer in your life before these deals disappear.If you need a rundown of gaming deals that delighted us (and readers) the most, were delighted by discounts on 2024s biggest games, including $20 off the Xbox version of Dragon Age: The Veilguard, $20 off Metaphor: ReFantazio, and $20 off Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2, and more. Lastly, if youre in the market for a gaming laptop, this 16.1-inch HP Victus laptop with an RTX 4070 and a fast CPU is just $829.99 ($520 off) at Best Buy. If you have a Steam Deck or an Asus ROG Ally, head over dbrand where you can get rare discounts on its stellar Project Killswitch hard case the best hard case around.The best Nintendo Switch dealsThe best PlayStation 5 dealsThe best Xbox dealsThe best PC and Steam Deck dealsLooking for more? Check out all of Polygons favorite Cyber Monday deals, including great discounts on board games, Magic: The Gathering, and Legos. And subscribe to our newsletter below to get great deals delivered to your inbox every week.

Situated amidst the rugged beauty of Roberts Island, Ontario, Canada, the Green Cabin, designed by Daymark Design, is a seasonal retreat that reimagines traditional cottage aesthetics, creating a space that harmonizes modern design with the breathtaking landscape of Georgian Bay. Approachable only by boat, the Green Cabin greets visitors with a geometric silhouette that pays homage to the islands natural contours. Perched close to the existing cottage, the new structure enhances the propertys functionality while respecting its storied history. The design cleverly leverages the islands natural features, including rocky outcrops and a mature treeline, to create an intimate yet open environment. The cabins placement, guided by strict zoning and environmental considerations, ensures a seamless integration with its surroundings.Clad in sage green standing seam metal siding, the cabin exudes a monolithic charm, blending effortlessly with the natural backdrop. The bold material choice was inspired by the hues of the original cottage and the vibrant natural palette of the site. The continuous metal cladding from roof to walls not only provides a sleek, modern aesthetic but also offers durability to withstand the harsh elements of Georgian Bays climate. Strategic elements, such as a thin steel drip edge, highlight the meticulous attention to detail, enhancing both form and function.The cabins west-facing facade is dominated by expansive glazing, designed to frame the dynamic vistas of the lake and wetlands. Thoughtful window placement allows for uninterrupted views while maintaining privacy from neighboring structures. On the southeastern side, small, ash-clad bump-outs house awning windows that create a connection to the wooded surroundings. These operable windows promote cross-ventilation, offering comfort during the warmer months.At the heart of the cabins design is its interaction with light. A unique skylight atop the modified hip roof invites sunlight to cascade through the space, illuminating its bright, playful interior. The interplay of light on the white walls and carefully crafted surfaces transforms the interior into a dynamic, ever-changing canvas.Inside, the cabin reveals a surprising contrast to its reserved exterior. Playful colors and sloped ceilings create a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere that invites relaxation and creativity. The compact footprint of 576 square feet is expertly utilized to provide a fully functional retreat for entertainment or relaxation.Designed for seasonal use, the Green Cabin emphasizes sustainability through its construction and context-sensitive design. Elevated to avoid water damage from fluctuating lake levels, the structure is built to endure extreme weather conditions, including high winds, heavy snow, and intense rain. Its durable materials and thoughtful construction ensure longevity while minimizing its environmental impact.For more information on Daymark Design, visit daymarkdesigninc.com.Photography by Adrian Ozimek.

2024 is quickly coming to a close and that means its time to start thinking about the new year ahead. Since theres nothing we can do to slow down time, were going (to try) to embrace it and jump right into 2025 when it arrives. If youre like us, that means getting our next calendar ordered and hung up prior to the new year. To help you out, were sharing 18 modern calendars that will let you kick 2025 off just right and on top of things!2025 Abstract Shapes Modern Risograph Wall Calendar by Mezzaluna Studio \\\ $24Punch Wall Calendar by Studio Tigress \\\ $88Stendig Calendar 2025 \\\ $59The Mini by RISOTTO \\\ 9Kal WALL SET BLACK 2025 \\\ 522025 Gradient Grid Calendar by Good Tuesday \\\ $18Typodarium 2025 \\\ 202025 Year Planner by Crispin Finn \\\ $292025 Vinon Wall Calendar by Octagon Design \\\ $582025 Riso Calendar by Current Shapes \\\ $60Photodarium 2025 \\\ 30PLAYFUL MOMENTS 2025 Wall Calendar by Dozi \\\ $23A3 Wall Hanger Risograph Calendar by RISOTTO \\\ 202025 Jumping Point Calendar \\\ $52Small 2025 365 Typographic Calendar by Studio Hinrichs \\\ $32A4 Risograph Calendar by PTRVRKD \\\ $27.422025 Wall Calendar by Modern Morse \\\ $19.502025 Risograph Wall Calendar by StudioOLITTLETHING \\\ $24 and upThis post contains affiliate links, so if you make a purchase from an affiliate link, we earn a commission. Thanks for supporting Design Milk!

Cars are evolving into smart ecosystems, driven by UX innovation, with much to learn from the success stories of leading Chinesebrands.The tomorrows car (Source:NASA)Blurry line between mobility and electronic productCars have always been different from digital products. Theyre dangerous if something goes wrong, which is why theyve followed strict hardware-centric development processes focusing on safety and reliability. In the past, cars attract users through performance, size, and brand reputation. User experience has been more about driving ergonomics than the features were familiar with in electronic products.As MKBHD began reviewing cars on his new sub-channel Auto Focus two years ago, and as JerryRigEverything has done similar reviews on different EVs, you might have noticed the line between electronic products and cars starting to blur. At least you can start reviewing them in sameway.Review the car just like review a electronics (screenshots from Youtube Auto Focus and MKBHDchannel)Tesla took the first step by introducing a giant touch screen and removing most of the physical buttons almost 10 years ago. Suddenly, the vehicle felt modernized. But more importantly Tesla and other brands, has introduced the car not just as a tool of moving people and goods but a good partner of daily life that combined both hardware and software.Some people call this the iPhone moment of the mobility industry. Just as we moved from Nokia keyboard phones to touch screens, we believe the mobility industry is undergoing a similar transformation.However, looking back today, this change isnt just about replacing physical input with touch screens. Its about bringing user/customer centered thinking into the entire product development processdefining products based on user needs and designing software that focuses on everyday usage, different scenarios, and various user groups. Now, we have delightful, intuitive experiences, just like when we use our smartphones.This shift didnt stop with Tesla; it sparked a global movement where other innovators began integrating digital user experiences into vehicles. Were all aware of the rise of Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) and are impressed by their operation efficiency, development speed, and sales price. Many people credit them for recent success in mobility products. However, an important aspect that make those product stand out and hasnt been discussed much is their focus onUX.The AI assistant NOMI, known for its loveable user experience, was introduced by the brand NIO in 2017 (Imgsource)By leveraging their strengths in consumer electronics and digital products, theyve infused the automotive industry with fresh perspectives and methodologies.Changing priorities: what do car buyers reallywant?The industry has effectively separated cars into two types: internal combustion engine (ICE) cars focusing more on traditional driving and new energy vehicle (NEVs) leading with smart features. Today, we see that most UX-focused mobility products are based onNEVs.Some might think that it just because people who choose ICE cars and NEVs are fundamentally different, targeting different user segments rather than representing an evolution.Traditionally, cars were judged on their performancehow they drive, their size, their shape and their cost. The brands reputation also played a big role. But recent research by McKinsey in 2023 and 2024 shows that in China, if we take it as a forecast of future global market, the factors influencing buying decisions for both groups are almost thesame.For both traditional ICE cars and NEVs, buyers care about brand, performance, looks, cost, and intelligent functions. However, for NEV buyers, the importance of brand is decreasing. Instead, they place more value on user experience and smart features, almost equal to performance andcost.The key buying factors are similar and the smart features are getting more weight (Source: 2023 McKinsey China Automotive ConsumerSurvey)For a long time, the needs for a mobility product that put on table is its function performance, how good it drive, how big, how much cost, and the needs under table is the reputation and imagination behind the brand identity.But its evolving, the experience needs for a mobility product brought by intelligent functions become the new things people really care, like how much their daily life will be improved around it, the daily usage focus, the needs for driving function is a necessary foundation for the experience, somehow people take it for granted because its relatively easy to achieve on NEVs compared to ICEcars.Users now balance brand, performance, and experience, with a growing focus on convenience.And the brand identity is not that important like before. In times of systemic change, consumers are more willing to abandon long-standing loyalties., much like how they choose personal electronics.What should a mobility product with UX focus belike?Many Chinese brands like Li Auto and Xiaomi Auto, often founded by former internet company executives, have brought familiar digital product design processes into the automotive industry. Theyve achieved remarkable success, offering a glimpse into what the future of mobility products with UX focus canbe.Designing features for scenarios, not just for premiumpriceLets play a small game. Imaging a built-in fridge in car, Im not sure do you have it, but take a while to think about it. Will you buy this feature and why would you buy thisfeature?You can find the refrigerated compartment on Mercedes S-Class or similar premium model (Imagesource)Previously, this feature was a luxury add-on in high-end vehicles, marketed for chilling drinks or even wine. But now, brands have reimagined this feature from a user-centric perspective: For mothers with baby: Its perfect for keeping baby formula fresh. Some even desire the fridge to warm the formula whenneeded. For camping and fishing enthusiasts: Ideal for preserving food ingredients and fish whileout. For families with elderly members who have diabetes: Useful for storing insulin pens, which need to staycool.Cooling and warming box, perfect for family with baby (Source: Li AutoL9)For family outing and camping (Source: OnvoL60)These are common scenarios for car owners in China. By focusing on specific target groups and user scenarios, brands design features that make sense in everyday life. This new way of defining product features leads to changes in how brands design cars and how users choose them. For the built-in fridge, new designs adapt to these target groups from the position of the hardware to the automation control done by software, enhancing their experience and influencing purchase decisions.Its about considering features beyond just luxury pricingadapting them to meet userneeds.Excelling in fundamentals, then surprising with experiencesMobility products still need to meet a wide range of needs. Focusing on UX doesnt mean sacrificing the fundamentals and more about find good trade-offs.A future car must first cover the basics: being a reliable mobility tool. NEV technology has allowed them to catch up with what ICE vehicles have offered and go further by addressing what users care about most. At the same time, they carefully consider trade-offs acceptable to their target users. Forexample:BYDs DMi technology offers incredible range but trades off some horsepower, which is fine for users looking for cost-effectiveness.NIOs battery swap solution provides convenient recharging but may have trade-offs in engineering flexibility, suitable for users seeking ultimate convenience.Beyond these fundamentals, the next step is to deliver surprising experiences that redefine what a car can be. A car can become more than just transportation: it can be a mobile home, a second living room seamlessly connected to your phone and home devices, a space for childcare, or even an AI-powered companion to entertain andassist.Tomorrows cars are defined by two separate perspectives: fundamentals and surprise, which together build a complete experience that meets both practical needs and emotional desires. (Source: Li AutoL8)This growing trend in mobility highlights how UX shapes product definition by blending the essential with the unexpected. The fundamentals ensure users have no reason to reject the product, while the surprises give them a reason to chooseit.As William Li, the Founder of NIO,said:The essence is clear: no matter what your goals are, your car should be loved by users and be user-friendly. Its time to redefine the automotive user experience.Including everyday and rare scenarios: making cars foreveryoneAt first, I was confused about what redefining the automotive user experience meant. But then I started seeing how cars could provide solutions for dailylife.Some cars now offer solutions for daily activity pain points, like a power nap mode Although it is kind of a special habit for users in China. The vehicle is designed as a movable, intelligent space that can accompany users at any moment of their daily life. This requires collaboration between software (ambient sound, alarm clock, air conditioning) and interior space design, allowing you to set a comfortable sleeping environment easily.MKBHD is trying the power nap mode in Li Auto Mega(Source)A car can also address rare scenarios. In response to urban flooding scenarios, some cars offer a boat mode allowing the vehicle to float and drive like a boat in water. While rare, it provides emotional support and safety assurance in daily usage. And eventually provide a imaginary benefits and feeling of secure of the products just like all of those airbags system. Who said this isnt part ofUX?Boat mode provides users with both the feeling and the real benefits of safety, much like airbags. (Source:WIRED)Some features bridge the gap between everyday and rare scenarios, offering surprises or personalized touches for everyone. Examples include a digital light belt to communicate with pedestrians, a reclining Queen seat for the front passenger, AI assistance for all passengers, and slots for installing functional accessories.All these features from Chinese brands are designed for the majority of users, not just niche, high-end customers. By cutting costs on decorative elements and investing in meaningful features, these innovations are available in $15K$25K NEVs in China. Designing for user experience doesnt mean catering to luxuryits about making great features accessible to most users. Thats the key to bringing UX to everyone.Co-creation and user Involvement incarsThe UX is also reflected in how to present and build mobility products, learning from digital product developmentmore and earlier user engagement.Chinese brands today focus less on maintaining a distant, untouchable image and more on connecting with users everyday lives. Many brands go even further to co-create products with users. Companies like Li Auto and NIO actively involve users in the development process:Tomorrows cars should be built to evolve with the user throughout their entire lifecycle. (Source: LiAuto)User Testing for Beta: Inviting users to test prototypes and provide feedback to the latest over-the-air(OTA) beta updates. As car shifting from hardware-centric to software-centric, its becoming increasingly possible to apply the entire UX design processtesting, gathering user feedback, and refiningbefore a features officially hits the market. This approach that quite common in the digital industry essentially turns the car into an iPhone and its software into the iOS, always undergoing beta testing beforelaunch.Idea Sharing and Collecting: Creating a official platforms for users to share innovative ideas and collecting them as a important innovation direaction. User and developer may not be able to develop feature for the car maker, but they can still contribute ideas. Therefore the car maker adopt them and turn them into app or features for thecar.Continuous Improvement from Feedback: Implementing user suggestions in software updates, new features implementation and bug fix over the entire product life cycle. Product updates dont end after the car is released. Feedback from current users leads to software updates that provide new ways of using the hardware for a better experience or fix current pain points without replacing hardware.This collaborative approach ensures that the product evolves in alignment with user expectations, fostering loyalty and a sense of community.User experience guides development decisionsGuiding critical technical choicesChoosing the right technology is critical and challenging in the automotive industry. Once a decision is made, the significant investment required until the product goes to market makes it hard to turnaround.For a long time, engineering advancements dominated decision-making, usually leading to better driving experiences. But as weve mentioned, user preferences are changing and leaning more toward diverse needs beyond just driving. Its not always about adopting the most advanced technology but selecting what best serves the usersneeds.In digital products, weve seen user needs define fundamental technical choices. For example, QR codes became prevalent in Asia over NFC technology, not because QR codes are technically superior, but because theyre more accessible and fit better with existing infrastructure.QR code is not the most advanced tech but the most suitable one for user in Asia (Photo by Albert Hu on Unsplash)One of the critical technical choices for car is the power solution. Among many power solutions for car, the range-extender (RE) has never been considered as an advanced technology. More system weight, hard to maintain and low fueleconomy.But Li Auto see it in a different way. The founder recognized its potential to address key user needs: providing intelligent functions for daily use, easing range anxiety with battery-based solutions, and offering emotional reassurance. He also understood that his target users were willing to accept trade-offs in horsepower and driving experience for these benefits.Li Auto adopted this RE solution from the very beginning when the company was founded, despite facing significant criticism from industry professionals and reviewers. This decision, along with otherssuch as prioritizing the passenger cabin experience over driving performancehas made Li Auto the most successful NEVs startup in China in recent years, all without compromising on price. The brand has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from users, and many other companies have since started following thistrend.The complexity of range extender solutions, combined with the flexibility they offer users, has helped brands achieve high user acceptance (Source)Tomorrows car can offer more than just a driving experience, extending its value to various life scenarios and serving a broader range of users. Evaluating a technology should consider not only its technical merits but also how it resonates with users and meets theirneeds.The same applies to solutions like battery swapping, super-fast charging, or even the classic combustion engine. None is inherently better than the others; each represents a belief in addressing specific userneeds.Guiding cross-domain feature collaborationIts easy to picture an intelligent feature like Apples Reduce Interruptions Focus Mode on your iPhone, where an AI assistant coordinates all aspects of the phones hardware and software to provide a seamless, distraction-free experience tailored to a singlepurpose.In cars, achieving this level of integration is naturally more challenging. Each component or systemthe doors, seats, driving controls, infotainment, parking assistance, and moreoften operates in separate domains, sometimes even developed by different suppliers or teams. And they work together to pass standard test multiple times to make sure everything is safe and good. Coordinating them requires a clear reason to invest development effort.Focusing on user experience pushes the industry to overcome these separations and realize features that genuinely benefit users, even if it requires extra cross-domain efforts.The upgraged Nape Mode is a perfect example which is more like a Cinema mode today. They integrates the speakers, infotainment system, seat controls, ambient lighting, climate control, and even chassis adjustments to create a comfortable resting environment. Achieving this requires coordination across multiple systems that traditionally wouldnt interact closely. By prioritizing the users experience, these barriers are broken down to deliver a seamlessfeature.The Cinema Mode in XPeng P5s v3 OS Update(Source)When companies recognize the immense value these integrated experiences bringleading to increased user satisfaction and loyaltythey become more willing to invest in bridging these divides. Today, you can find the Nap Mode in almost every NEVs from many other brands. The proven user value serves as the perfect guidance to overcome barriers.The growing expectation from users to have their cars continuously evolve through software updates and new featuresmuch like their everyday digital experiences with smartphones and appshas become a force pushing the automotive industry toward software-defined-vehicles. This shift isnt just about technology advancement; its driven by users who increasingly expect their vehicles to be as adaptable and upgradeable as their other digitaldevices.The architectural evolution that gets closer to what smartphones offer enables continuously updatable cross-domain features(Source)The take aways: driving into a user-centric tomorrowHyundai software boss Chang Songsaid:Cars have evolved beyond their traditional role as a means of transportation. Theyre not just for getting aroundanymoreThe future of cars lies in integrating user experience at every level of development. By focusing on what people really need and want, car makers are redefining what a car can be. Theyre transforming vehicles from mere transportation tools into intelligent, integral parts of dailylife.This shift isnt just about technology; its about understanding and prioritizing the human experience. As user experience continues to drive product definitions and technical decisions, the automotive industry will evolve to offer experiences that are intuitive, personalized, and deeply connected to ourlives.The core concept of this article is based on a presentation from the 2024 Bosch UX Convention. Special thanks to Wang Lu and Peng Feiyi for their contributions to thisarticle.The digital soul of tomorrows cars was originally published in UX Collective on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Last December, I was laid off from my UXR job at Spotify. A year later, time and reflection have provided me with fresh and valuable perspectives.September 2022: I just wrapped up my Spotify internship in Stockholm, about to start as a full-time User Researcher.One year ago, I was part of the 17% who were impacted by the layoffs at Spotify. This was a moment that completely shifted the course of my career and life. Earlier this year, I wrote about this raw and emotional experience in my article, Life After Spotify: What No One Tells You About Life After Layoffs. I shared the shock, uncertainty, and lessons I learned in those early days. In the months that followed, I found myself fighting with questions about my identity, my career, and what I truly wanted moving forward. It wasnt easy, that is for sure. But now, a year after the life-changing transition, Ive gained personal and professional insights that only time and introspection canbring.Here are the key lessons Ive learnednot just about recovering from a layoff, but about navigating the tech industry, growing as a junior professional, and finding resilience in the face of uncertainty.My SpotifyjourneyWhen I joined Spotify, it felt like a dream come true. The companys mission to connect people through music aligned perfectly with my Music Psychology background, and the opportunity to work at the cutting edge of the tech and music industries was beyond exciting. My role as a UX Researcher allowed me to collaborate with talented people, solve complex problems, and contribute to projects that had a real impact on users around the world. It was a place where I felt valued and energised, and I truly believed I had found my professional home.So when the layoff news came on December 4th 2023, safe to say it was a shock. The news hit hardnot just because of the suddenness, but because it felt like the end of a chapter Id worked so hard to build. It was a reminder that, despite our best efforts, external factors beyond our control can change everything in an instant. Losing my role was more than just the loss of a job; it felt like losing a piece of my identity and the future I had envisioned formyself.The learningsSetbacks are temporary: layoffs are not theendSetbacks like layoffs, can feel overwhelming at the time, but they are rarely the end of your story. One door may be closed, and then doors open for unexpected opportunities you might not have otherwise considered. Its a reminder that careers are not linear, and setbacks are simply a part of growth. By treating challenges as temporary redirections rather than permanent failures, you allow yourself the space to adapt, explore, and eventually find a new pathforward.Your job is what you do, not who youareYour job is what you do, not who you area truth that became clear to me after being laid off. Its easy to tie your identity and self-worth to your role, especially if its at a company or in an industry youre passionate about. But no title or company can fully define who you are or what youre capable of. By focusing on your skills, values, and passionsrather than just the work you doyou create a stronger, more grounded sense of self that can weather any career change. Remember, your job is just one part of your journey, not the sum of your identity.Im grateful to have had the chance to attend such fun events at Spotify such as Listening Lounge. This was taken the day Loreen came to perform at theoffice!Layoffs arent personal: understand the business side and know yourworthLayoffs arent personala hard truth that took time for me to understand. While its natural to feel rejected or question your abilities, layoffs are often the result of financial decisions, restructuring, or market shiftsnot a reflection of your value. Its important to separate your self-worth from the companys business decisions. Recognise that your skills and contributions are still valid, even if your role was impacted. By understanding the business side of layoffs, you can shift your perspective, focus on your strengths, and approach the next chapter with confidence andclarity.Resilience requiresrestResilience isnt just about pushing through challenges, its also about knowing when to rest and recharge. After my layoff, I felt the pressure to constantly stay busy. Networking, job hunting, learning new skillsbelieving that every moment of downtime was a wasted opportunity. But I soon realised that true resilience comes from balance. Taking time to rest, reflect, and prioritise self-care gave me the mental and emotional space I needed to recover andrefocus.Burnout can erode your ability to think clearly, make good decisions, and show up as your best self. By allowing yourself periods of rest, you build the energy and mental clarity needed to tackle the next challenge with renewed strength. Resilience isnt about enduring without pauseits about knowing when to rest so that you can show up stronger when the timecomes.Reflect, dont justreactWhen faced with a setback like a layoff, its tempting to react immediatelyrushing into job applications, accepting the first opportunity that comes your way, or making hasty decisions out of fear. But one of the most valuable lessons Ive learned is the importance of pausing to reflect before acting. Taking the time to assess what you truly want in your next step, what aligns with your values, and where you can grow will lead to more intentional and fulfilling choices. Reflection helps you process the emotions tied to a layoff, understand what you gained from your previous role, and clarify your long-term goals. Instead of reacting to external pressures, it allows you to act with purpose, ensuring that your next move is a step forward, not just a step away from your current situation. Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is pause, think, and recalibrate before diving back into the jobrace.Embrace your passions and expertiseLosing a job can often lead to a crisis of confidence, making it easy to question your value. However, embracing your passions and expertise can be a powerful tool in navigating the uncertainty of a layoff. Its important to remember that your passion for certain areas and your unique set of skills are what set you apart. Whether its a niche technical skill, a deep industry knowledge, or a creative passion, dont lose sight of what you bring to the table. This is your opportunity to pivot towards projects or roles that align with both your expertise and your heart, creating a career path thats not only fulfilling but also sustainable in the long run. The combination of what youre skilled at and what youre passionate about can lead to new, exciting directions in your career that you may not have considered before.Presenting my Masters thesis on How AI Can Help Bridge Cultural Gaps in Music Therapy at The Future of Music and Arts in Medicine and Health conference in Berlin, September 2024 (left) and attending the International Music Summit in Dubai(right)For me, its been embracing my Music Psychology background through starting writing on Medium, attending conferences to present my research work, and finding new freelance clients for music workshops.Flexibility is a superpower: the importance of a growthmindsetFlexibility isnt just about adapting to changes in your current role or industryits also about being open to geographical or professional shifts that might take you out of your comfort zone. When I lost my job, I had to leave Sweden and move to Dubai to be back with my family, a significant change that forced me to rethink not only where I lived but also how I approached my career. While the transition was challenging, it taught me that location doesnt have to limit opportunity and that a new environment can bring fresh perspectives and possibilities.Similarly, being open to professional changewhether its pivoting to a new industry, learning a different skill set, or exploring a side hustlecan lead to unexpected growth. The tech world moves quickly, and the roles in demand today might look completely different in a few years. By staying curious and adaptable, you prepare yourself to thrive in a constantly shifting landscape. Flexibility isnt just about surviving change, its about thriving in uncertainty and finding opportunities where others might see obstacles.Juniors bring value: dont undermine your contributionsAs a junior professional, Ive struggled with not feeling like my contributions dont hold as much weight, especially in a team full of senior professionals. But juniors bring unique value: fresh perspectives, adaptability, and a willingness to learn that often drive innovation. Looking back, I realise that every small task, new idea, or extra effort added value to the team and the projects I worked onand I received such feedback from my colleagues. For juniors, celebrate your contributions and approach every opportunity with confidence. Your perspective matters and your energy can often spark the kind of change or creativity a teamneeds.Your network is your networthThe people youve worked with or simply stayed connected with are invaluable when navigating career challenges. Whether its offering advice, sharing opportunities, or providing emotional support, a strong network can make all the difference. Building genuine relationships isnt just about LinkedIn connections or professional gain, its about creating a community that grows with you. Invest time in nurturing those relationshipsyou never know when they might lead to your next opportunity or a helping hand when you need itmost.My fellow team of amazing UX researchers at Spotify (left) and some of my Sharing product team(right)!The tech industry is volatile: always expectchangeThe tech industry is inherently volatile, and one of the most important lessons I learned is that change is constant. Whether its market shifts, company restructuring, or new technologies disrupting the landscape, the pace of change can be overwhelming. At Spotify, I saw firsthand how decisions made at the corporate leveloften driven by external factorscan drastically reshape the trajectory of a business and its employees.So, expect change and be prepared for it. Building a career in tech means accepting that stability is an illusion and that adaptability is key. Being proactive about staying informed on industry trends, continuously upgrading your skills, and cultivating flexibility in your career plans can help you navigate the uncertainty. Embracing change, rather than fearing it, allows you to stay resilient and seize new opportunities even when the landscape shifts unexpectedly.Embrace the uncertainty: growth happens outside of your comfortzoneEven a year after the layoffs, Im still navigating the uncertainty that came with it. While Ive learned a lot, there are days when the lingering questions about my career, the future of the industry, and my next steps feel as daunting as ever. The uncertainty left behind by the layoff continues to shape the way I approach my careerwhether its exploring different industries, considering geographical moves, or questioning my long-term goals. But what Ive come to realise is that this uncertainty is part of the process. Its not something to fight against, but something to leaninto.The discomfort of uncertainty can be uncomfortable, but its also where new opportunities lie. When you let go of the need for certainty and embrace the unknown, you open yourself to new experiences, personal growth, and unexpected paths. The best things often happen when you push yourself beyond what you knowwhether its taking on a new role, exploring a different industry, or simply choosing a different approach towork.The takeaways and where I amnowThe journey of navigating a layoff has taught me that while uncertainty can feel overwhelming, its also an essential part of growth. As I continue to navigate this ambiguity, Im learning to embrace the fluidity of the journey. Instead of seeking immediate answers or forcing things to fall into place, Im allowing myself the time to reflect, explore, and grow. While the uncertainty may never fully go away, Im learning that its not something to fear, but a space for new opportunities tounfold.Embracing change and remaining adaptable is key to thriving in the volatile tech industry. Ive learned that setbacks are temporary and that our jobs are just one part of who we are. Building a strong network, staying flexible, and approaching challenges with a growth mindset have opened doors to unexpected opportunities, and hopefully will continue to pave the way to many more. Ultimately, embracing uncertainty, taking time to reflect, and knowing when to rest are helping me not only recover from the impact but also redefine my career and personal growth on my ownterms.I was laid off from Spotify one year ago: heres what Ive learnt was originally published in UX Collective on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication.I love iced coffee, but I loathe cold coffee. Intentionally iced coffee is perfection, while hot coffee that's gone cold is disgusting. You can, of course, microwave coffee to return it to a drinkable temperature, and I havemany times. But a sad mug of microwaved coffee is no replacement for sipping a freshly brewed cup as close to its original temperature as possible, and that's always going to be a losing race against time. Enter Ember, and its "smart mug." Unlike your dumb mug, Ember's cup can keep your drink at a stable temperature of your choosing, ranging between 120F and 145F. You set the temperature in the Ember app, pour yourself a cup of joe, and sip at your own leisure: Every time you take a drink, your coffee, tea, hot chocolate, what have you, will be the same temperature as the first sip. Ember Smart Mug (14 oz) $109.99 at Amazon $149.95 Save $39.96 Get Deal Get Deal $109.99 at Amazon $149.95 Save $39.96 I have been using an Ember mug for a while now, and it really is greatif not slightly surreal. It's an odd thing to pick up a mug of coffee that's been sitting around for half an hour, take a sip, and find it as steamy as when I first poured it. As odd as it sounds, this means it comes with a bit of a learning curve, at least if, like me, you are used to taking larger and larger sips of your coffee the longer it has been sitting around. Don't throw back a cup from your Ember, is what I'm saying. It'll be a bad time. A piping hot cup for over an hourEmber will eventually stop keeping your drink hot when the battery runs out. When new and fully charged, that's a generous 80 minutes, which is a long time to enjoy any single 14 oz beverage. However, if you tend to drink multiple cups a day, that battery will wear out before you've finished your afternoon spreadsheets, so I recommend storing the wireless charging dock wherever you're most likely to be drinking from the Ember mugperhaps your desk, or on an end table. That way, you can place your mug on the charger instead of a coaster, and keep the battery constantly juiced. The dock is also on sale for Cyber Monday, down to $27.99 from $39.95, but the mug comes with a dock, so you only need to buy one if something happens to the one you already own or you want more than one for some reason. (No judging.) Don't let your brew burnThe Ember mug isn't perfect. My one gripe is with how it handles the last sip or two of your beverage. It seems the heating element is so strong, it burns, or at least alters the taste of, any too-small amount of liquid. My advice is to finish the cup before it gets to this point, keep your temperature set lower, or turn off the heater via the app when you get about three-quarters of the way through it.A critical note: Do not put your Ember mug in the dishwasher. This mug is hand-wash only. It's safe to scrub it in the sink, and even submerge it in water up to one meter. However, the abrasive nature of your dishwasher's jets will be too much for both the outside coating and the electronics inside the mug. It's a little extra work to hand wash it after each use, but you'll have plenty of energy thanks to having downed that never-cooling cup of coffee. The Best Cyber Monday Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case $154.00 (List Price $249.00) Meta Quest 3S 256GB VR Headset + $30 Digital Credit (List Price $399 With Code "QUEST30") Apple iPad 10.9" 64GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (2022 Release) $279.00 (List Price $349.00) Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet $149.00 (List Price $219.99) Blink Outdoor 4 1080p Security Camera (3-Pack) $99.99 (List Price $259.99) Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones $199.00 (List Price $349.00) Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm, Black, S/M, Sports Band) $329.00 (List Price $399.00) iRobot Roomba Vac Essential Q0120 Robot Vacuum Cleaner $149.00 (List Price $249.99) SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Gaming Headset (Black) $269.99 (List Price $349.99) Samsung Odyssey G93SC 49" Dual QHD OLED Curved Monitor $949.99 (List Price $1,599.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication.Laptops are one of the most commonly discounted items on Cyber Monday, whether you prefer MacBooks, PC laptops, Chromebooks, or gaming machines. Sales are running across Amazon, Best Buy, retailer websites, and more, with price cuts as hefty as $400 off on laptops packed with top-of-the-line specs and modern hardware. Prices are accurate as of the time of writing, but you can expect them to fluctuate and inventory to sell out, so you may not want to hesitate if you see a sale that grabs you. And if youre interested in a new tablet or phone as well, see our best Cyber Monday tech deals page for a broader view of all the best discounts you can get right now.Best Cyber Monday MacBook Deals Apple 2024 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M3 chip: Built for Apple Intelligence, 13.6-inch Liquid Retina Display, 16GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD Storage, Backlit Keyboard, Touch ID; Starlight $1,099.00 at Amazon $1,299.00 Save $200.00 Get Deal Get Deal $1,099.00 at Amazon $1,299.00 Save $200.00 Apple aficionados have plenty to choose from this Cyber Monday, with deals across the companys entire lineup of in-house M-series chips.Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M3 Chip: $1,099 at Amazon (was $1,299). This is Apples most recent MacBook Air, complete with the M3 chip, a base 16GB of RAM and a base 512GB of storage (unfortunately, the deal on the 256GB model is sold out at time of writing). Thats more than enough for most people.Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M3 Chip: $1,424 at Amazon (was $1,699). Largely similar to its 13-inch counterpart, this MacBook Air comes with a 15-inch screen and an M3 chip. At time of writing, only the 512GB model with 24GB of memory is in stock.Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 Chip: $799 at Amazon (was $999). If youre OK going with a slightly older model, the M2 MacBook Air with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage is $100 cheaper than the M3 model right now.Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 Chip: $599 at Walmart (was $699). Apples oldest M-series MacBook Air is still a strong workhorse, with an M1 chip, 8GB of memory, and 256GB of storage, although the smaller discount here might not make the compromise worth it.Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M3 Pro Chip: $1,699 at Best Buy (was $1,899). A slightly older model of MacBook Pro, this 14-inch laptop boasts an M3 Pro chip, 18GB of memory, and a 512GB SSD. Its a good compromise between a MacBook Air and a MacBook Pro.Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro Chip: $1,749 at Amazon (was $1,999). Or just do away with compromises. If you want a pro-level MacBook with a pro-level chip, this is a great pick. Youll get a 14-inch MacBook Pro with an M4 Pro chip, 24GB of memory, and up to 1TB of storage.Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro Chip: $2,249 at Amazon (was $2,499). This 16-inch screen upgrade to the M4 Pro MacBook Pro, with the same chip, up to 48GB of memory, and 512GB of storage.Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Max chip: $3,149 at Amazon (was $3,499). A screen-size upgrade to the M4 Max MacBook Pro, this deal will net you a 16-inch display, 36GB of memory, and a 1TB SSD.Best Cyber Monday Windows Laptop Deals Dell - Inspiron 16 2-in-1 Mini-LED Touch Laptop Intel Core Ultra 7 Processor - 32GB Memory 1TB SDD - Intel Arc Graphics - Midnight Blue $1,499.99 at Best Buy Get Deal Get Deal $1,499.99 at Best Buy For those who, like me, grew up with a Windows PC, theres still plenty of deals on the tried-and-true standard this Cyber Monday, especially for those looking for something that can go toe-to-toe with a MacBook Air.Lenovo Yoga 7 14-inch 2-in-1 with Ryzen 7 chip: $675 at Lenovo (was $1,025). This convertible Windows laptop can flip around to turn into a tablet, and it comes with a respectable AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS chip, a whopping 1TB of storage, 16GB of memory, a 14-inch touchscreen, and even a stylus.Samsung Galaxy Book 4 with Intel Core 7 Chip: $530 at Best Buy (was $900). If you didnt know, Samsung actually makes laptops! This Windows machine comes with a 15-inch display, an Intel Core 7 chip, 16GB of memory, and 512GB of storage.Lenovo ThinkBook 16-inch with Ryzen 4 7430U Chip: $704.65 at Amazon (was $899). This laptop deal packs a lot of extra goodies for its price point, with a Ryzen 5 7430U CPU, 64GB of RAM, up to 4TB of storage, a Fingerprint Reader, and a copy of Windows 11 Pro.Asus Zenbook 14 OLED with Intel Core Ultra 5 Chip: $500 at Best Buy (was $800). The Zenbook 14 OLED is one of my favorite competitors for the MacBook Air, and comes with an OLED touchscreen. This deal will snag you an Intel Core Ultra 5 chip with 8GB of memory and 512GB of storage, although a configuration with an Intel Core Ultra 7, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD is also on sale.Asus Vivobook S15 with Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus Chip: $500 at Best Buy (was $900). This laptop is similar to the Zenbook 14 OLED, thanks to its 15-inch, 3K OLED display, but comes with a Copilot+ compatible chip, opening it up to Microsoft's AI-centric features like Recall (currently in testing). This model comes with 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage.Dell XPS 13 with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H Chip: $1,399 at Dell (was $1,999). Dell's XPS lineup used to be my favorite MacBook Pro competitors for Windows, although the company's recent choice to opt for a touchbar has somewhat cooled my enthusiasm. Still, at this price, the Intel Core Ultra 7 chip, 32GB of memory, 1TB SSD, and 3K OLED display is great value.Dell Inspiron 16 with Ryzen 5 8540U Chip: $550 at Dell (was $700). This basic laptop is a more modest Dell productivity machine, with an AMD Ryzen 5 8540U processor, 16GB of memory, 512GB of storage, and a 16-inch FHD+ display.Dell XPS 16 with Intel Core Ultra 9 Chip: $2,545 at Dell (was $3,145). For a splurge, this XPS laptop from Dell comes with a big screen and can even game on the side. You'll get an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H CPU, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, 32GB of memory, a 1TB SSD, and a 16-inch 4K+ touch display.Best Cyber Monday Gaming Laptop Deals GIGABYTE AORUS 17: 17.3" Thin Bezel QHD 2560x1440 240Hz, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU 8GB GDDR6, Intel Core i7-13700H, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, Win11 Home (AORUS 17 BSF-73US654SH),Black $1,542.24 at Amazon $1,749.00 Save $206.76 Get Deal Get Deal $1,542.24 at Amazon $1,749.00 Save $206.76 More powerful Windows machines tend to be labeled gaming laptops, and this Cyber Mondays deals in the category dont disappoint either, with options for gamers of almost all budgets.Dell Alienware m16 R2 Gaming Laptop with Intel Core Ultra 9 chip: $1,300 at Dell (was $1,700). This 16-inch gaming laptop from Dell packs a lot for the price, with up to an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, up to 64GB of memory, up to 2TB of storage, and a 16-inch QHD+@240Hz display.Gigabyte AORUS 17 Gaming Laptop with Intel Core i9 chip: $1,570 at Amazon (was $1,749). This is a good, if a little old, premium gaming laptop option, with an Intel Core i9-13700H chip, 16GB of memory, 1TB of storage, and a 17-inch QHD@240Hz display.Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gaming Laptop with Intel Core i9 chip: $2,199 at B&H (was $2,649). One of the bigger splurges on this list, this deal will net you a 14th gen Intel Core i9 chip, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 GPU, 32GB of memory, 1TB of storage, and a 16-inch QHD+@240Hz display.Lenovo LOQ 15-inch Gaming Laptop with Ryzen 5 chip: $800 at Lenovo (was $909). This is one for gamers on a budget. It packs a modest AMD Ryzen 5 8645HS chip, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, 16GB of memory, 512GB of storage, and a 15-inch FHD@144Hz display.Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 laptop with Ryzen 9 chip: $1,200 at Best Buy (was $1,600). Another gaming laptop, this 14-inch model is a bit smaller, but manages to pack an AMD Ryzen 8 8945HS CPU, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, 16GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and 2,880 x 1,800 display with a 120Hz refresh rate.Best Cyber Monday Chromebook Deals ASUS Chromebook Plus CX3402 14" Laptop with Google AI - Intel Core i5 1335U - 8GB Memory - 128GB SSD - Pearl White $329.00 at Best Buy $499.00 Save $170.00 Get Deal Get Deal $329.00 at Best Buy $499.00 Save $170.00 Chromebooks can be a great way to get a polished design on a budget, so long as youre ok with doing most of your work in the cloud. Here are some of my favorites discounted for Cyber Monday.Asus Chromebook Plus CX34: $329 at Best Buy (was $440). This Chromebook comes with a few extra AI goodies thanks to its Chromebook Plus status, plus an Intel Core i3-1215U chip, 8GB of memory, 256GB of storage, and a 14-inch FHD display.HP Chromebook x360: $199 at Walmart (was $429). A budget way to get a convertible, this Chromebooks screen can flip around to become a tablet. It has an Intel Processor N100, 4GB of memory, 64GB of storage, and a 14-inch FHD touchscreen.Acer Chromebook Spin 714: $525 at Amazon (was $750). A fancier Chromebook convertible, this machine packs an Intel Core i5-1235U processor, 8GB of memory, 256GB of storage, an FHD+ touchscreen, and comes with a stylus.Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3: $240 at Lenovo (was $400). This is a detachable Chromebook, meaning the screen and the keyboard can separate, so you can use the screen as a tablet. It comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 chip, 4GB of memory, 64GB of storage, and an 11-inch 2K touchscreen.Acer Chromebook 516 GE Cloud Gaming Laptop: $500 at Amazon (was $600). This Chromebook is actually intended as a cloud gaming machine, thanks to a high-resolution and high-refresh rate display as well as a snazzy RGB keyboard. It has an Intel Core i5-1240p chip, 16GB of memory, 256GB of storage, and a 16-inch QHD+@120Hz display.Lenovo IdeaPad 3i Chromebook: $109 at Best Buy (was $249). Coming it at almost under three figures, this Chromebook is very basic, but might have enough to get by for a few more years. You'll get an Intel Celeron processor, 4GB of memory, 64GB of storage, and an FHD display.Best Cyber Monday Laptop Deals Under $300 ASUS Vivobook Go 15.6 Laptop, AMD Ryzen 3 7320U, 8GB, 128GB, Windows 11 Home in S Mode, Mixed Black, E1504FA-AS33 $275.93 at Amazon $299.99 Save $24.06 Get Deal Get Deal $275.93 at Amazon $299.99 Save $24.06 Chromebooks can be great for working in the cloud, but not every budget laptop needs to be a Chromebook. Here are some cheaper laptops that still come with Windows installed.Acer Aspire Go 14: $280 at Acer (was $350). This laptop is a good cheap pick, and should be good for people whose work depends mostly on the cloud. It comes with an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U CPU, 128GB of storage, 8GB of memory, a 14-inch screen, and Windows 11 in S Mode. Note that S Mode laptops can only use apps from the Microsoft Store by default, although this can be changed later.Lenovo Ideapad 1: $300 at Best Buy (was $580). This is a great way to get a touchscreen at a low price, and itll net you a 15-inch display, a Ryzen 5 7520U chip, 8GB of memory, and 256GB of storage.Asus Vivobook Go: $275 at Amazon (was $300). This laptop is among the cheapest ways to get Windows on this list, with a Ryzen 3 7320U chip, 8GB of memory, 128GB of storage, and a 15-inch display.Asus Vivobook 14-inch: $220 at Best Buy (was $430). For a slightly smaller budget laptop, this Vivobook is a good pick. It has a 14-inch display, an Intel 12th Generation Core i3 chip, 8GB of memory, and 128GB of storage. The Best Cyber Monday Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case $154.00 (List Price $249.00) Meta Quest 3S 256GB VR Headset + $30 Digital Credit (List Price $399 With Code "QUEST30") Apple iPad 10.9" 64GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (2022 Release) $279.00 (List Price $349.00) Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet $149.00 (List Price $219.99) Blink Outdoor 4 1080p Security Camera (3-Pack) $99.99 (List Price $259.99) Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones $199.00 (List Price $349.00) Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm, Black, S/M, Sports Band) $329.00 (List Price $399.00) iRobot Roomba Vac Essential Q0120 Robot Vacuum Cleaner $149.00 (List Price $249.99) SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Gaming Headset (Black) $269.99 (List Price $349.99) Samsung Odyssey G93SC 49" Dual QHD OLED Curved Monitor $949.99 (List Price $1,599.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team